A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or is blocked. Without blood and oxygen, part of the brain starts to die. Because brain damage can begin within minutes, it’s important to know the symptoms and act fast.

Symptoms  |  Prevention  |  More Health Information

Symptoms

In a stroke, every second counts. If you have any of these symptoms, call 911 or other emergency services right away.

• Weakness, numbness, or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes, double vision, or things looking blurry or dim
• Sudden confusion or trouble understanding
• Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, feeling unsteady
• Sudden severe headache

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Prevention

Strokes often result in long-term health problems, and sometimes death. But there are steps you can take to help prevent them and improve your overall health.

• Don’t smoke
• Control your blood pressure
• Eat a diet low in saturated fats
• Drink alcohol in moderation
• Exercise 30 minutes a day
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are diabetic, monitor your glucose levels carefully

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More Health Information

Health Library | Learn more about stroke
Health Libary | Symptoms of a stroke
Health Library | How to prevent a stroke
Health Libary | Stroke rehabilitation
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